Our Year 7 and 8 boys experienced an unforgettable half-term tour to South Africa, enjoying brilliant blue skies, wall-to-wall sunshine and, of course, lots of cricket.
After some initial training and acclimatisation to the wonderfully warm Cape Town weather, the boys were eager for their first fixture against VanRiebeeck Strand Primary. An excellent afternoon of cricket and a win for our U12s proved a fantastic start. The fun continued as the boys watched an inspiring match between Western Province and the Lions at the iconic Newlands Stadium.
Each day of the tour brought exciting new challenges and stunning cricket grounds with truly unforgettable backdrops. The boys enjoyed fixtures against Curro Durbanville Primary, Paarl Boys Prep, Wynberg Boys and Reddam Constantia, each match adding to their growing experience and camaraderie. Special mention goes to Ben Brading, who scored 93 off 54 balls, and Freddie Gibbs, Samarth Serish and Ned Neale, who also gained half-centuries during the week.
The boys enjoyed trips to Camps Bay beach and Sea Point swimming pool in between fixtures. An incredible afternoon and morning game drive at the Aquila Game Reserve, complete with stargazing and marshmallow roasting in a traditional boma, safely enclosed to protect from any surprise wildlife visits, was a highlight of the tour.
Adding to the excitement, the boys received a special shout-out from Declan Donnelly (of Ant and Dec), who was also in South Africa.
It was wonderful to have the unwavering support of parents, many of whom travelled with us to South Africa. They were the boys’ most enthusiastic cheerleaders at every fixture.
After a most wonderful week of cricket, all headed home with great excitement for the season ahead and hope for some South African-style sunshine in the months to come.
“The boys have been a credit to the school and have learnt so much from all the game time.”
